Fossil Snail / Gastropod
Gastropod gen. et sp. indet. • Body fossil, invertebrate
Geological Period
Cenozoic (likely Miocene to Pliocene)
Estimated Age
5 to 23 million years ago
Preservation Type
Original aragonite or calcitic replacement / recrystallization with surface polishing
Condition Assessment
Very Good condition, largely complete with intact spires and minimal surface wear
Taxonomic Classification
Phylum Mollusca, Class Gastropoda, Order Neotaenioglossa
Morphological Description
Spiral spired gastropod shell showing distinct whorls and a rounded body whorl with a smooth, polished exterior surface.
Rock Matrix
None visible, fully cleaned specimen (isolated shell)
Formation & Location
Commonly found in marine sedimentary deposits worldwide, such as the Yorktown Formation in Virginia, USA
Size & Dimensions
Approximately 3 to 4 cm in length, typical for medium-sized fossil gastropods
Value & Rarity
Estimated Market Value
15 to 45 USD
Auction Estimate
10 to 30 USD
Rarity Assessment
Common
Scientific Significance
Useful for paleoenvironmental reconstructions, shallow marine biostratigraphy, and paleoclimatic studies
Preparation Recommendations
No further preparation needed; store in a stable, low-humidity environment away from direct sunlight
Notable Features
Clean white preservation with well-defined whorl sutures and a smooth outer finish